Valentine’s Day is right around the corner. I know this because my husband, the professional chef, is planning a special Valentine’s Day menu for the patrons of Persimmon Woods Golf Club. Lucky for me, this special dinner is the Saturday before Valentine’s Day so I actually get to spend “the holiday” with my hubby this year, which isn’t usually the case. Ah, just another part of the glamorous life of a chef’s wife (ie, it’s not so glamorous).

When I think of Valentine’s Day, I think of roses, candy hearts, and love letters … none of which I need to make Valentine’s Day special; just getting to spend time with my husband is enough. And I’m actually not a Valentine’s Day person, but there is one Valentine’s Day staple that I do love … red velvet cake.

I recently made the recipe below for Christmas Eve, but these Red Velvet Babycakes would make a perfect Valentine’s Day treat. Swap out the sugared cranberry garnish pictured below for some candy hearts or perhaps a Hershey’s kiss … and have a lovely Valentine’s Day with your special someone … I know I will with mine!

2. In medium bowl, combine flour, cocoa powder, and 3/4 tsp. salt; set aside. In large mixing bowl, beat butter on medium-high 30 seconds. Add sugar and vanilla; beat until combined. One at a time, add eggs; beat on medium after each. Beat in food coloring on low.

3. Alternately add flour mixture and buttermilk to egg mixture; beat on low to medium speed after each just until combined. Stir together baking soda and vinegar. Add to batter; beat just until combined.

5. Turn cupcakes over and drizzle with Winter White Glaze or icing of your choice. Top with decorations, as desired. Makes 24 cupcakes.

Winter White Glaze

4 cups powdered sugar

1 tablespoon meringue powder

1/2 cup hot water

1. Beat together all ingredients with an electric mixer until smooth.

2. If too thick, add more hot water, 1 tablespoon at a time until desired consistency. Use immediately. Makes about 2 cups.

http://jennaseverythingblog.wordpress.com Jenna

These look like a great Valentine’s Day treat!! I’m still considering what the heck to make . . . or maybe we should eat out? I’m just not sure. But I’m tempted by the idea of dropping some money on a nice beef tenderloin.

Kimberly

Thanks, Jenna! We’re going out to dinner for Valentine’s Day to one of our favorite restaurants … but the idea of beef tenderloin sure sounds good!